PESHAWAR – On March 31, 2026, the “Pakistan-Afghanistan Peace Jirga” brought together political, tribal, religious, and social leaders from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and tribal districts. Organized under KP Inspire and the National Reform Movement, the jirga aimed to create a platform for open dialogue to address rising tensions between the two neighboring countries.
Speaking at the event, participants stressed the centuries-old shared cultural, religious, and social bonds between the people of Pakistan and Afghanistan. “These ties cannot be ignored. Both nations suffer when tensions rise,” said Shaukatullah Khan from Bajaur. The gathering highlighted the urgent need for immediate action to prevent further escalation.
Ceasefire, Dialogue, and Confidence-Building Measures
The jirga’s joint declaration called for an immediate ceasefire and urged both countries to prevent their territories from being used against each other. Leaders agreed that conflicts must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than war. “Negotiations are the only way forward. Violence will not bring lasting solutions,” said Senator Hameedullah Jan Afridi.
The declaration also recommended establishing a permanent communication platform between Pakistan and Afghanistan to reduce misunderstandings and build trust. “We need confidence-building measures at every level to strengthen relations,” added Mufti Abdul Ghani Fizo from Waziristan.
In addition, the jirga sent a clear message to policymakers that national interests and public safety must always take priority over group agendas. Leaders emphasized that mutual respect and understanding are essential for lasting peace.
Key participants included political leaders, senators, parliament members, tribal elders, religious scholars, and media representatives. Notable names included Engineer Ehsanullah Khan (ANP), Junaid Altaf (Chamber President), Siraj-ul-Haq (Dir Upper), Malik Fakhar Zaman (Kurram), and Dr. Ibad Khan (PML-N). The attendees unanimously called for continued peace-building efforts and closer cooperation between both nations at political and community levels.
Looking ahead, organizers announced plans to expand the platform nationally, bringing in more leadership and promoting dialogue at the community level to maintain trust and work toward a lasting peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
